Major/Minors explained

How it works

The University of Leicester’s degree system has a modular structure, which means that a Major/Minor degree can be built up from the same modules that are studied by students on Single Honours and Joint Honours degrees. Students on all three types of degree study together within any given module.

The actual workload is constant. When you do a Major/Minor degree, you will take fewer modules in your Major subject than you would for Single Honours, but the total number of credits you gain from all your modules together (which will include your Minor subject) will always be the same.

Your personal tutor will be a member of staff from the department teaching your Major, but you will receive all the support you require from both of your departments.

Many of our Majors, and some of our Minors, include opportunities to spend a part of your course abroad or on an industrial placement. See individual course pages for details of what is on offer.

Applying

Each Major has a UCAS code which you can use to apply, just as you would for a Single Honours degree. You should indicate your choice of Minor in the 'Further Information' section of your UCAS form.

You can change your mind and select a different Minor before you start at Leicester or during the first two weeks of the first term.

N.B. Many universities do not offer Major/Minors so some of your other UCAS choices may be Single Honours degrees. In writing your personal statement, it’s fine to concentrate on just one of the two subjects.

Future options

At the end of your first year you may be able to adjust the balance of your degree to better suit your evolving interests and ambitions. From a Major/Minor degree you could potentially:

Switch to a Joint Honours (50/50) degree – where this option exists.

Switch to a Single Honours degree in the same subject as your Major – where this option exists.

Keep your Major but switch your Minor to a different, related subject – depending on which modules you have taken.

At all times, we will provide you with all the support and advice you need to choose the right degree combination for you. This includes special information sessions and dedicated Major/Minor advisers.